Hunter Hayes’ “Storyline” Album Sales Pacing for Soft 70-80K

Despite getting off to a strong start on iTunes, Hunter Hayes’ new album “Storyline” is not pacing for an impressive opening week sales count.

Per Hits Daily Double’s very preliminary estimates, the latest from the singer-songwriter is tracking to move 70-80,000 copies in its inaugural week.

While that represents a significant increase from the 18,000 opening week tally for his 2011 debut, it does not support the notion that Hayes became a commercial powerhouse in the wake of his success with songs like “Wanted” and “Somebody’s Heartbreak.”

And while Hayes’ first album demonstrated longevity eventually going platinum, it benefited from the corresponding surge in Hayes’ popularity. Since Hayes is already on the radar of most country music fans, it is unlikely any “Storyline” single will provide the gamechanging career spark that “Wanted” did.

If the modest estimate holds, it will not even be the week’s largest debut tally. The NOW 50 compilation, now the best bet to contend with “Frozen” for number one, is tracking for 90-110,000.

Other early forecasts include 35-45,000 for Sarah McLachlan’s “Shine On,” 20-25,000 for Lily Allen’s “Sheezus” and 20-25,000 for Tech N9ne Collabos’ “Strangeulation.”